SOCIAL SCIENCES

The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters

by Emily Esfahani Smith
Crown. Jan. 2017. 288p. bibliog. ISBN 9780553419993. $28; ebk. ISBN 9780553446555. SELF-HELP
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According to Wall Street Journal writer Smith, Americans are beginning to shift their focus from the pursuit of happiness to a life of purpose that can be found by being useful to others and connecting with something larger than themselves. She draws from the writings of philosophers, historians, and authors who describe, in various ways, how doing "what feels good" can lead to depression and suicide, and how concentrating only on the self can result in feelings of emptiness and isolation. The advice to seek the company of others, step outside oneself, and have a worthy mission in life permeate the text. Many points are repeated for emphasis.
VERDICT While Smith makes thorough points, her work tends more toward a doctoral dissertation than general self-help, making this quality discussion material for philosophically inclined readers.
Reviewed by Deborah Bigelow , Nov 15, 2016
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